We stayed at Hotel Ranola over New Year's Eve. It could not have been a better location for enjoying downtown Sarasota and all of its amenities. It was within walking distance to many wonderful restaurants and other attractions. The hotel itself was built in the 20s as a apartment hotel, and it has been completely remodeled. Rooms are large, well appointed, attractive and very comfortable. The staff was extremely accomodating and helpful. We would definitely return.

Hotel Ranola exceeded our expectations! It was a perfect location for us as we visited for a high school reunion. It was convenient for walking to the downtown Sarasota restaurants and shops. We also enjoyed the nearby sidewalk chalk art festival.

The owners and employees were friendly and hospitable. It was necessary to provide our arrival information so that they could arrange for someone to be there to greet us. Check in was efficient and it was nice to be given a quick overview of the room features. It was interesting to read the information about the building's history as a former apartment building in the early 1900's.

The decor was contemporary and eclectic. The bed was super comfortable. The dressing room/walk in closet was well organized. The bathroom was small, but sufficient and had a luxury shower head and toiletries. The mini-kitchen had full sized appliances and a cute breakfast table.

Overall, we had a fabulous stay and highly recommend Hotel Ranola.

This review is long overdue! My fiance and I stayed at the Hotel Ranola for New Year's Eve this past year. It was a fantastic experience. Downtown Sarasota had a huge block party with multiple bands and champagne and fun everywhere! (Having grown up in Sarasota, I was a little shocked to see downtown turned into such a "happening scene." Before heading out, we had a picnic style dinner in our hotel room with some friends, and we all loved the hotel. The rooms are like little apartments, complete with a full kitchen. The flat-screen tv was a major plus for my fiance with all the good football games on. I can't rave enough about this hotel! It is one of the only downtown hotels in Sarasota. You are walking distance from amazing restaurants and bars (and movie theaters...go to Burns Court, much better movies!). If you get a chance, stroll down Ringling Blvd to Bayfront Park, it's the perfect place to watch the sun set and grab a cold beer at the tiki hut. Take my advice, if you get a chance, stay at the Ranola!! We were hoping we could stay there and move in!

As our second stay at Hotel Ranola, my girlfriend and I were very pleased with the experience. Part of the reason we chose to stay again was the great personal attention we received in our first stay, and again Robert, Kim, and Stephanie didn't disappoint.

We also really enjoyed the modern furnishings. We stayed in room 12 (king bed). It had a sort of art deco scheme with fantastically colorful combinations. This room had a full kitchen as well, with an assortment of pots, pans, china, and even a martini shaker. The little touches were nice. Bathrobes, complimentary water bottles in the fridge, bookshelf with complimentary books. They'll even hook you up with a DVD player if you ask nicely =). Too many stays in cold, staid hotel rooms can wear on the soul, you know.

Location-wise, we liked that it was a bit secluded from the downtown bustle. That has its downside, but it's really only a five minute walk from Orange Street, which is where the heart of downtown Sarasota starts. Besides, there's a great Italian café/wine bar downstairs, Ca'rina. Very convenient. It's run by an Italian couple, Andrea and Cristina, and the loving care they've lavished on their bungalow turned café is very cute. Try the bruschetta with a little Prosecco! Yum!

Again, it was our second stay, and we'll surely stay again next time we're in Sarasota.